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Governor Quinn Announces Michael McCotter as Special Investigator of the DHS Office of Inspector General

7/27/2012

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Friday, July 27, 2012

CONTACT:

Brooke Anderson (o. 312-814-3158; c. 312-590-0195)

Annie Thompson (o. 217-782-7355; c. 217-720-1853)

McCotter to Overhaul Investigations of Abuse and Neglect Cases; Governor Also Names Acting Inspector General

CHICAGO - July 27, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn today announced the appointment of Michael McCotter as Special Investigator of the Office of Inspector General of the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). McCotter, a 40-year law enforcement veteran, will be charged with reforming the investigative operations of the Inspector General's office. Governor Quinn also named Daniel Dyslin as Acting Inspector General for IDHS until a permanent replacement is named. Today's actions follow an executive order issued by the governor earlier this month to strengthen protections for adults with disabilities.

"Michael McCotter will bring his strong law enforcement experience and dedication to reform to this mission," Governor Quinn said. "His appointment underscores my commitment to ensuring that all people are treated with dignity and respect, and that any abuse and neglect suffered by citizens with disabilities is rooted out quickly and punished appropriately."

IDHS Secretary Michelle R. B. Saddler will work with McCotter, the governor, members of the General Assembly and stakeholders to explore and institute future reforms that safeguard the lives and rights of people with disabilities.

As Special Investigator, McCotter will review investigative procedures to ensure that abuse and neglect reports are investigated swiftly and that confirmed cases are referred to the appropriate authorities with strong supporting evidence. He will also review the policies of the office to better address and fulfill the office's mission of protecting people with disabilities. McCotter was previously appointed by Governor Quinn as chief public safety officer for the Illinois Department of Corrections and has served in several senior positions at the Chicago Police Department, including chief of patrol, deputy chief of detectives, commander of special events and district commander. He has had professional training with the FBI, United States Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, among other law enforcement agencies.

In addition to appointing McCotter, Governor Quinn named Daniel Dyslin as Acting Inspector General for IDHS. Dyslin has been serving as a Senior Deputy General Counsel at IDHS and has a strong background as an attorney and advocate for people with disabilities.

"We will work swiftly to investigate suspected neglect and abuses and work with law enforcement to put a stop to such actions," Saddler said. "Today's action strengthens our efforts to ensure people with disabilities receive the highest quality of care and are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve."